Every year, hundreds of families and individuals suffer damage to their home following a fire, flood or similar incident.  The Fire and Emergency Support Service (FESS) delivered by specially trained British Red Cross (BRC) volunteers provides practical help, advice and comfort to assist people coping with the aftermath of a domestic fire or similar incident.

Assistance is given by providing a purpose built vehicle with shelter, food, toiletries, clothing, access to a telephone and helping look after children and pets.  The BRC volunteers also provide information and advice in finding temporary accommodation, and can assist with producing an inventory of lost or damaged items.

The FESS vehicle (based at Springbourne Fire Station) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

The BRC volunteers work in cooperation with Dorset Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) and arrive at the scene of any incident in the County within 90 minutes of receiving a call out.  The service is free to the people receiving it – all costs are met by voluntary donations to the BRC.

We urgently need volunteers for mid week daytime. If you would like information about becoming a volunteer for the FESS vehicle please contact: